$539,506Average Value$321Average Price per Sq Ft12Homes For Sale
East Traverse City is convenient to stores, restaurants and beaches
At the start of the Old Mission Peninsula, East Traverse City offers a slow-paced lifestyle by Grand Traverse Bay and its two arms, known locally as East Bay and West Bay. “I’m a big advocate for [East Traverse City],” says Brian McGillivary, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, who has lived in the neighborhood for about 25 years. “It’s quieter and less congested, but you’re still right on the edge of downtown.” For some, it’s a modest place to live, convenient not only to downtown but to neighborhood stores, restaurants and public beaches. Those with waterfront properties enjoy the same amenities along with their million-dollar estates. Life by the water here also comes with a unique weather phenomenon. “We have three seasons: winter, summer and fall,” McGillivary says. “We don’t really have spring weather because the bay is a big ice cube that keeps the area cold. We basically have a long extension of winter, and then boom — it’s summer.”
From small condos to million-dollar waterfront homes along East and West Bay
East Traverse City has a mix of condominiums and single-family homes. One-to-three-bedroom condos sell for around $200,000 to $500,000. As for single-family homes, small cottages and ranch-style homes sell for around $160,000 to $340,000. More spacious ranch-style and bi-level houses range from around $370,000 to $630,000. Larger upscale houses can go for around $690,000 to $930,000. Many waterfront properties have private beaches, but they don’t hit the market often. There was a recent sale along the East Bay for $1.5 million. According to McGillivary, houses along the West Bay tend to cost more, and the most he’s seen a waterfront property sell for is around $3.5 million.Traverse City has a moderate risk of flooding. In East Traverse City, flood maps show waterfront homes along the West Bay as having a great chance of being impacted by flooding. Some areas inland are at risk as well, including homes in the middle of the Orchard Drive loop and near College Drive.
Beaches on both bays and fun at Grand Traverse County Civic Center
While downtown is perhaps the most booming spot for beach activity, there are several beaches open to the public in East Traverse City. “It seems most people don’t even know about East Bay Park,” McGillivary says. “What’s nice is the East Bay actually gets warmer because it’s much shallower and heats up faster.” Along with seasonal swimming in the warm, shallow water, locals can relax on the sandy beach, go boating or have fun on the playground in the grassy area. Bryant Park offers a similar experience on the West Bay. Grand Traverse County Civic Center has several ball fields used by local youth leagues and tournaments, an outdoor skate park, an indoor ice-skating rink and a mile-long trail around the park. The Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART) runs along Parsons Road and the railroad all the way to downtown.
Local stores and restaurants on Front Street
Most stores and restaurants are along Front Street, also known as U.S. Route 31. There’s a wide variety of places to eat. It’s home to The Omelette Shoppe, a local chain known for its breakfast and brunch. The Cottage is another Traverse City staple, serving American comfort food to the community for decades. The neighborhood has some regional chains, including Detroit Wing Company, the only location in Traverse City. Front Street has a few shopping centers with big-box retailers, such as Tom’s Food Market, a city-wide grocery chain. According to McGillivary, many people shop at Costco, about 10 minutes away just south of the Cherry Capital Airport which is just south of the neighborhood. Some local stores on Front Street include Benjamin Twiggs, a gift basket shop, and Wild Birds Unlimited, which sells bird-feeding products.
Steps away from elementary and high school
Many elementary and high school students can walk to school. Eastern Elementary School is in the neighborhood and receives a B-plus grade from Niche. East Middle School is also graded a B-plus but is about 5 miles away. Back in the neighborhood, Central High School, which serves students in grades 8 through 12, receives an A-minus. In 2025, the high school expanded its STEM program by opening an Innovation and Manufacturing Center. Post-secondary students can stay in the neighborhood by attending Northwestern Michigan College, a community college with more than 60 degree and certification programs.
Free shuttle rides from the Bayline
Bayline, Traverse City’s free shuttle system, operates bus routes along Front Street, which can be taken downtown and to other parts of the city. To drive downtown, it’s about a 5-minute trip. The Bayline also runs to Cherry Capital Airport, which is just south of the neighborhood, where travelers can fly to 19 major U.S. cities.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Eldon Palmer,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Clinch Park Beach
Clancy Park
Highland Park
Huron Hills Park
Run Dog Run
Gens Park
Kids Kove
Traverse City State Park
Eastern Elementary Playground
Transit
Airport
Cherry Capital
8 min drive
Bus
Tom's East Bay (Westbound)
Bus
E Front St & Milliken
Bus
E Front St & E Garfield Ave
Bus
Munson Avenue & Davis Street
Bus
Munson Ave & 8th St
Bus
Indian Trail Blvd & Airport Access
Bus
Airport Access Road & Munson Community Health
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
East Traverse City
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
East Traverse City Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in East Traverse City, Traverse City sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in East Traverse City, Traverse City over the last 12 months is $365,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Morning coffee on your covered front porch gazing at the Bay! Endearing ranch two blocks from East Bay Park and boat launch. Totally renovated and ready for summer fun! Open floor plan, vaulted ceilings. New roof, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, paint, appliances, front door and so much more! 3 BR/2BA in coveted neighborhood close to the college. Primary bedroom suite has double bathroom sinks and
Chris ChristensenFive Star Real Estate - Front St TC
This charming 3 to 4 bedroom home features 2 full bathrooms and is conveniently located within a short walk of beaches, schools, a college, and shopping areas. It is just a block away from Traverse City's vibrant social district. The property boasts a new roof, updated flooring, modern mechanical systems, and stainless steel appliances. You'll find a spacious storage shed and a generously sized
Welcome to this captivating mid-century modern, ranch style home nestled at the base of Old Mission Peninsula in the heart of Traverse City, Michigan. Situated in a highly sought-after and well established neighborhood, this meticulously refurbished residence offers the perfect blend of classic charm and modern amenities. The property's prime location places you just moments away from both the
Stylish and move-in ready, this contemporary 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo puts you in the heart of Traverse City living. Built with modern finishes and clean lines, the open layout offers comfortable living with an efficient footprint. Natural light fills the space, and thoughtful design details create a fresh, low-maintenance lifestyle. Located just blocks from the Civic Center, Bryant Park, NMC,
Opportunity knocks in the heart of Traverse City! Just off the TART Trail, near the airport, and minutes from downtown, this ideally located 2 bedroom log-style home is your chance to own a piece of Northern Michigan at an unbeatable price point. There are so many amenities Traverse City has to offer right at your fingertips! Surrounded by endless amenities, you’re just a short bike ride or walk
Parkview Apartments – Affordable Senior Living in Traverse CityDiscover a brand-new affordable community designed for residents 55 and older at Parkview Apartments. Our thoughtfully planned one- and two-bedroom homes combine modern comforts with a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Traverse City.Each apartment comes equipped with a full-size washer and dryer, walk-in shower,
Utilities included in rent Nearly New Rental at 1846 Alpine Dr unfurnished Mid-Century Modern Retreat Step into luxury at 1846 Alpine Dr, nestled at the base of the serene Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City, Michigan. This nearly new, unfurnished 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is available for a 12-month lease and blends mid-century modern, Craftsman, and contemporary design with comfort and
Welcome to a picture perfect home in Traverse City, Michigan. This home is a rare gem in the heart of the region, located on the base of Old Mission Peninsula within the city limits. With 4 large bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, an office and multiple flex spaces, this home offers its tenants the opportunity to work, host, and entertain with ease. From the beautiful foyer entrance with the open staircase
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Eldon Palmer,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,296
Median Age
40
Population under 18
18.8%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
24.2%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$67,795
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$83,731
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.7%
College Graduates
51.5%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
15.4%
% Population in Labor Force
56.8%
Below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
29''
Average Winter Low Temperature
17°F
Average Summer High Temperature
81°F
Annual Snowfall
87''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
60/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
51/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
